High risk and low prevalence diseases: Acute mastoiditis

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Pediatric Emergency Medicine
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Acute mastoiditis is a severe infection of the mastoid air cells, primarily affecting children.
• It often arises secondary to otitis media and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the key aspects of acute mastoiditis relevant to emergency department (ED) clinicians.
• To highlight diagnostic and management strategies based on current evidence.

Main Methods:

• Review of current evidence on the presentation, diagnosis, and management of acute mastoiditis.
• Emphasis on clinical examination findings and imaging modalities.

Main Results:

• Common symptoms include fever, malaise, and specific physical exam findings like postauricular erythema and mastoid tenderness.
• Computed tomography (CT) with contrast is crucial for diagnosis when uncertain and for identifying complications.
• Treatment involves antibiotics and otolaryngology consultation.

Conclusions:

• Early recognition and appropriate management of acute mastoiditis are critical in the ED setting.
• Understanding potential complications such as abscesses and neurological involvement is essential for effective patient care.